Distraction Burglary
Home Security Gadgets
This page contains information on various types of home security equipment designed to target harden a property against distraction burglary, and burglary in general. For details of products which meet the technical standards identified by ACPO CPI and carry the Secured By Design 'police preferred specification' title, click here. |
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Door Viewer/Spy Hole
Allows householders to check the identity of visitors before they open the door. A wide-angle model is available for those with sight problems.Voice Reminder Alarm
Acts as a reminder to householder to follow the "Lock, Stop, Chain, Check" procedure prior to opening the door to a stranger. A family member or friend can pre-record the message. This device should be located by the entrance, and is triggered by movements.Door Chain
Allows householders to check the identity of visitors, without opening the door completely. (Advise householders to use the door chain every time someone calls and only use the door chain when answering the door - not to leave it on all the time.)Door Guard/Bar
As an alternative to the standard door chain.Door Mirror
To be used in conjunction with door bar or door chain. It helps to identify visitors especially if the door is located in an awkward position.Two Way Intercom
Allows householders to speak to visitors without opening the door.Social Alarm
Special equipment linked to the telephone system that enables householders to get help quickly, at the touch of a button, even if they are unable to speak. This help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Association of Social Alarms Providers
Burglar Alarm
Acts as the most highly visible deterrent to burglars. Most burglars will avoid breaking into a property with an alarm. There are many alarms systems on the market. An audible-only alarm sets off a siren or bell when triggered. Due to the huge number of false alarms, police will only respond to audible-only alarms if there is a confirmation of suspicious activity such as a neighbour saying they heard glass being broken or they saw someone.
A monitored alarm is connected to a central "listening" service. The monitoring company will check the genuineness of the alarm and call out the police. This type of alarm system is particularly suitable for isolated properties.
ACPO Security Systems Policy 2004
ACPO Security Systems Policy 2004 Guidance Notes
CCTV System
Allows householders to monitor visitors without opening the door.
This is also covered by ACPO Security Systems Policy 2004.
Timer
Used to randomly turn on/off table lamps, radios and TVs to easily create the illusion that a home is occupied.Security Light
Puts off and draws attention to a burglar. The most appropriate form of lighting to use is high-efficiency low-energy lighting, controlled by a dusk-to-dawn switch so that it comes on only when it's dark. This provides a constant and uniform level of light and costs very little to run. (dawn-to-dusk light).
Lights that come on when triggered by movement can be annoying to neighbours, and can be dangerous to passing traffic. If used, make sure they face downwards. (movement-activated light).
Lights should be fitted out of reach - at the height of at least 2.5 metres.
For further information on home security equipment, visit the Trading Standards Institute - Doorstoppers. (Door Security Equipment)
Click here for a list of companies that hold Secured by Design Licenses and produce one or more products which meet technical standards endorsed by ACPO CPI Ltd.
Last update: Thursday, January 18, 2007